Summer is the perfect time for kids to get outside, play, and have fun in the sun. As a health-conscious dad, it’s essential to provide your little ones with nutritious and delicious summer snacks that will keep them energized throughout their busy days. In this article, we’ll share some simple and healthy summer snacks for kids!
1. Fruit Kabobs
Fruit kabobs are a fun and colorful way to serve fruit to your kids. Simply skewer pieces of your kids’ favorite fruits onto wooden sticks or reusable skewers. You can use a variety of fruits such as grapes, strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, and kiwi. These fruit kabobs are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and nutrients that are essential for growing kids.
2. Veggie Sticks with Hummus
Veggies and hummus make a tasty and nutritious snack combination. Cut up an assortment of raw vegetables like carrots, celery, cucumber, and bell peppers into sticks. Then, serve them with a side of your kids’ favorite hummus flavor. This snack is full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a perfect summer snack for kids on the go.
3. Frozen Yogurt Bites
Frozen yogurt bites are a cool and refreshing treat that your kids will enjoy on a hot summer day. Simply mix your kids’ favorite yogurt flavor with some fresh fruit and spoon the mixture into a silicone mold or ice cube tray. Freeze the yogurt bites until solid, and they’re ready to eat! This snack is a healthier alternative to store-bought ice cream and popsicles, which are often loaded with added sugars.
4. Nut Butter and Banana Sandwiches
For a more filling and protein-packed snack, try making nut butter and banana sandwiches. Spread your choice of nut butter (such as peanut or almond butter) on whole-grain bread and add sliced banana. Cut the sandwich into fun shapes using a cookie cutter for added appeal. This snack will provide your kids with essential nutrients like protein, healthy fats, and potassium.
5. Mini Rice Cake Sandwiches
Mini rice cake sandwiches are a creative and wholesome snack idea that’s perfect for kids on the go. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or nut butter onto mini rice cakes and top with your kids’ favorite ingredients such as sliced fruit, veggies, or even lean deli meat. Then, place another mini rice cake on top to create a little sandwich. These bite-sized treats are easy for little hands to hold and are a great source of whole grains and other essential nutrients.
6. Smoothie Popsicles
Turn your kids’ favorite smoothies into a refreshing summer treat by making smoothie popsicles. Blend together fresh fruits, vegetables, yogurt, or milk and pour the mixture into popsicle molds or small paper cups. Insert a popsicle stick into each mold and freeze until solid. Smoothie popsicles are an excellent way for your kids to enjoy a nutritious and hydrating snack on a hot summer day.
7. Homemade Trail Mix
Whip up a batch of homemade trail mix by combining a variety of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and whole-grain cereal. This portable snack is not only delicious but also provides your kids with a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. You can customize the trail mix according to your kids’ preferences, making sure to avoid any potential allergens.
8. Cheese and Crackers
Cheese and crackers are a classic snack that is both tasty and satisfying. Choose whole-grain crackers and pair them with slices of cheese or cheese sticks. This snack is a great source of calcium, protein, and whole grains, providing your kids with the energy they need to stay active throughout the day.
9. Apple “Donuts”
Transform apple slices into a fun and healthy snack by creating apple “donuts.” Core an apple and cut it into round slices. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or nut butter onto the apple rings and top with your kids’ favorite toppings, such as mini chocolate chips, granola, or dried fruit. These apple “donuts” are a delicious way for your kids to enjoy a sweet treat while still getting the benefits of fiber and other nutrients from the apple.
10. Veggie and Cheese Roll-Ups
For a protein-packed and nutrient-dense snack, try making veggie and cheese roll-ups. Lay a slice of lean deli meat, such as turkey or chicken, onto a cutting board and place a slice of cheese on top. Add thinly sliced veggies like cucumber, bell pepper, or carrot, and roll up the meat, cheese, and veggies into a tight roll. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces for an easy and healthy snack that your kids will love.
These easy and healthy summer snack ideas are perfect for keeping your kids energized and satisfied during their busy summer days. With a little creativity, you can provide your children with nutritious and delicious snacks that they’ll look forward to eating!